If this is your first visit, be sure to
check out the FAQ by clicking the
link above. You may have to register
before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages,
select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.

Re: Are you ready for the Odfrank overwintering challenge?

Originally Posted by BayHighlandBees

Murph,
how long did it take for your hive to succumb to the Yellow Jackets?

-Andrew

sorry, I've been busy with things... it took about 2 months, but the colony wasn't strong to begin with (relatively fresh swarm cut out of a water meter box). Even then, they probably would have made it except they swarmed a month after I installed them so there was a brood break as well

Re: Are you ready for the Odfrank overwintering challenge?

I know it's late to join in but I just got out to my 2nd yard to take off some empty feeders and wish the ladies a pleasant winter. I have 18 colonies, 11 hives and 7 nucs. All no treat...Only thing left to do is wrap.

Re: Are you ready for the Odfrank overwintering challenge?

Put me down for 80 colonies, mostly double nucs. Somewhat reluctantly treatment free, after 5 booming hives totally Absconded after inserting HopGuard strips
But the remaining colonies are strong , healthy and heavy-very content and settled in for fall.
No yellow jacket assault problems like last year.
I will check mite loads again soon and only treat if necessary.
I wish everyone good luck and a mild pleasant winter!

Re: Are you ready for the Odfrank overwintering challenge?

Hi Brian,
Not trying to be rude, but 2 months of abuse by yellow jackets is neglect on you're part. You knew the hive was weak. I'd like to suggest you look into making a couple robbing screens to use in the future when problems arise. I believe you could have easily saved that hive.
Sorry if I came of a little hostile, just want to give you alternatives for you're future management.

Originally Posted by btmurph

sorry, I've been busy with things... it took about 2 months, but the colony wasn't strong to begin with (relatively fresh swarm cut out of a water meter box). Even then, they probably would have made it except they swarmed a month after I installed them so there was a brood break as well

Re: Are you ready for the Odfrank overwintering challenge?

I made full disclosure in post #86. I plan to win this competition with as big a margin as I won the bait swarm contest. I see two 12 frame jumbos dead so Scut will have to help stack them on the survivors.